Wounded Warrior & Iraq War Veteran Jeff Cleland to Join Rep. Katko for State of the Union Address

Press Release

U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24), today announced that he will be joined for the President's State of the Union address by Camillus native and retired U.S. Marine, Corporal Jeffrey J. Cleland (USMC, Ret.).

Born and raised in Central New York, Jeff joined the military shortly after graduating from West Genesee High School. Jeff served as an Infantry Machine Gunner (0331) assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, Fox Company (America's Battalion). He retired from the United States Marine Corps in 2008 due to wounds sustained while fighting in Iraq. After his return from Iraq, Jeff earned his Bachelor's degree in Policy Studies (Public Affairs) from Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He now works with veterans and their families as a Program Manager of Community Engagement & Innovation for the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. In this role, Jeff fosters and maintains relationships with the community agencies that provide services to veterans and their families. Prior to his current position at Syracuse University, Jeff worked as a Peer Support Specialist at Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango, NY, assisting veterans and their families in understanding their benefits and aiding in community outreach. Jeff lives in Camillus with his wife, Kim, and their two children.

"Jeff has dedicated his life to selflessly serving our country, both as an active duty Marine and as a veteran devoted to serving his fellow Central New York veterans and their families," said Katko. "I am honored and humbled to have him as my guest for the president's State of the Union address this evening."

"I was truly astounded and honored when Congressman Katko asked me to attend the State of the Union address as his guest," said Cleland. "I never expected to be so rewarded for my service to this country and to its veterans, but it is assuring to know that Rep. Katko has our back."

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